Festive Markets, Events and Christmas Breaks in the Lake District 2017

01 November 2017

For anybody wishing to spend a less hectic, more relaxing Christmas this year, The Lake District offers a flavour of festive celebrations as they used to be. Whether it’s a traditional craft market, classic festive food and drink, or the sound of a real choir, we love the season of good cheer here in Grasmere and Ambleside. Here are just some of the reasons to come and enjoy it with us in 2017, from special events to our exclusive Christmas and New Year escapes:

A wonderful event to get everyone into the Christmas spirit each year, this gathering brings all ages together for an evening of entertainment, music and stalls. For those who wish to make a day of it there is also a special Lake District Christmas Cruise on Windermere. Otherwise, just be sure to get a good view point for 4:15 pm, as the lantern procession starts, heading for the town centre, followed by fireworks in Rothay Park. The event is only a short drive from our doors in Grasmere, or if you fancy a mulled wine or two there is also a bus service.

Do you know someone who loves to be spoiled with great food? If so, there is still time to whisk them away for our special extended Gourmet Break Offer! With expert tasting tutorials and a wealth of tantalising dishes to try over four days, this is the ultimate Lake District food and drink experience. Our speciality breaks section has further details to whet your appetite. Be quick!

Taste Christmas Food Festival at Cockermouth (Sat 9th & Sun 10th Dec)

For anyone looking to taste or buy authentic Cumbrian food and drink, this annual special market is a great detour to make. Alongside the usual passionate artisan companies and festive entertainment, this year’s event also has new features including a Secret Gin Garden for the grownups, along with a Taste Trail for all ages around the town. All in all, it’s a great day out and ideal for a spot of Christmas gift shopping for those with food-loving friends. For further details, see: http://tastecumbria.com/taste-events/taste-cumbria-cockermouth/

Christmas Steam Trains & Lake District Cruises (various dates)

For a nostalgic day out around Christmas, Cumbria has several well-established train and boat journeys to add some sparkle. The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway host various Santa Specials for three consecutive weekends (Dec 2nd to 17th).

Meanwhile, Ullswater Steamers offer a similarly nostalgic journey by water. There is a Santa Cruise and Christmas Magic Special (Sunday 17th December) if you book tickets early. Or alternatively, the company still run a limited timetable through much of December, with lovely winter views to take in. See https://www.ullswater-steamers.co.uk

Brilliant Lake District Christmas Escapes at Rothay Garden

For those looking to spend a more laidback Christmas without the queues, cooking or washing up to worry about, our special festive breaks offer the perfect getaway for 2017! With the best in Lake District food and hospitality, we promise you three days of good cheer and excellent seasonal dining in idyllic surroundings. Perhaps the highlight is our seven-course Christmas dinner on the big day. But if that sounds a little indulgent, you’ll have all the fresh air you desire should you want to walk off some calories in beautiful surroundings ! Click here for further information.

Or join us for exclusive New Year Getaways in the Lake District...

Should you want to wind down after Christmas, we also have are also offering some excellent New Year Escapes to welcome in 2018. Indeed. If you can’t get away earlier, this is the ideal way to celebrate New Year’s Eve with Champagne and fireworks, along with lovely scenery and total relaxation. Read more here.